Mathematical model of wedge-shaped plain bearing considering the dependence of viscosity on pressure

Abstract

Abstract This paper outlines a new approach for finding an asymptotic and exact self-similar solution for the zero and first (without taking into account the melt and considering the melt, respectively) approximation of the wedge-shaped plain bearing with a non-standard support profile of the slide and the low-melting metal coating of the surface. The given approach is based on the flow equation of a ferromagnetic fluid for a «thin layer», the continuity equation, as well as the equation describing the profile of the guide’s molten contour. The proposed method takes into account the dependence of the rheological properties of the lubricant and the melt that have ferromagnetic properties in the laminar flow on pressure. We have succeeded in obtaining accurate analytical dependences for the field of velocities and pressure at zero and first approximations and the ones for the profile of the guide’s molten surface. Besides, we have managed to determine the key performance properties for the slide–guide friction pair, including load-bearing capacity and friction force. Finally, we could assess how the bearing capacity and friction force are influenced by parameters caused by the coating melt adapted to the conditions of the support profile friction and a parameter that characterize the rheological properties of the lubricant.